Demographic Surveys History

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Demographic Surveys History

Over the decades, the reach of the census spread to new states and areas under U.S. sovereignty or jurisdiction. Census officials, even when they led temporary offices, have constantly sought to increase both the amount and the diversity of information they collected about the people of the United States. From mortality to home ownership, statistics have given Americans a better idea of the demographic profile of the United States. Click on the link below for more information on the decennial census:

Decennial Census History

The decennial census has been conducted in years ending in "0" since 1790, as required by the U.S. Constitution. Article I, Section 2.

The development and implementation of statistical sampling techniques for the 1940 census gave birth to several mid-decade demographic surveys at the U.S. Census Bureau. These surveys give businesses, policy planners, and the public the opportunity to use updated national and state- or local-level (depending on sample size) statistics for relatively little cost or difficulty. Some of these surveys include:

American Community Survey History

The nationwide American Community Survey (ACS) is a critical element of the Census Bureau's reengineered decennial census program.

Current Population Survey History

The Current Population Survey originates with a program set up to provide direct measurement of unemployment each month on the basis of a random sample.

Survey of Income and Program Participation History

The Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP) provides a wealth of information to analyze the economic situation of people in the United States.

The American Housing Survey History

The American Housing Survey (AHS) provides an inventory of homes and new construction in the United States.